State Library Victoria is calling on artists, graphic designers and illustrators to submit proposals for a large-scale artwork to be installed inside the Library’s new Russell Street entrance, opening this spring.

Proposals are invited for artworks inspired by the Library’s extensive collection of items related to Victoria’s flora, fauna and natural history.

The successful artist will be awarded $20,000 to produce an artwork measuring 29 metres wide and 5 metres high to be temporarily displayed in the new Russell Street Welcome Zone. Shortlisted proposals will be awarded $500 each.

The commission is an exciting opportunity to be a part of the once-in-a-generation transformation of an iconic Melbourne landmark which will showcase the work of an Australian artist to the Library’s five thousand daily visitors.

The opening of the Russell Street Welcome Zone will mark an exciting stage in the Library’s Vision 2020 redevelopment project, providing access to beautiful new reading rooms and spaces for visitors to meet, relax or study.

The Russell Street entrance – reopening after more than a decade – and a new accessible entrance on La Trobe Street will be the main entry points when the Swanston Street entrance closes temporarily as part of the Library’s $88.1 million Vision 2020 redevelopment project.